Malaria: the facts for determining good practice
8 December 2008
Malaria is one of the most common infectious diseases and a big public health problem. Travellers from the UK returning from malaria endemic areas account for around 1500-2,000 cases per year.
In 2007 over 70% of infections were caused by the potentially fatal Plasmodium Falciparum, and indications are that a significant cause of infections was failure to take prophylaxis, or taking inappropriate prophylaxis for the destination. Malaria is preventable but often travellers arrange their trips without seeking pre-travel advice, or ignore advice on prevention.
Health professionals advising patients who are travelling to malaria endemic areas not only need to be aware of the disease but to stress the importance of personal protection measures; and taking and completing the recommended courses of chemoprophylaxis. It is important for travellers who return unwell from endemic areas to seek prompt medical attention and for the travel history to be recorded.
This essential event will provide a key update for all health care professionals who are involved in advising travellers on appropriate measures for the prevention of malaria in UK travellers.
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